Paris weather
in January
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 13 rainy days across the month, on average.
January in Paris offers a uniquely serene and intimate experience. The city embraces a crisp winter chill, with average high temperatures hovering around 7.3°C and overnight lows dipping to about 1.7°C. While certainly cool, this weather invites visitors to savor the city's indoor delights in comfort.
Expect around 64mm of rainfall spread across roughly 12.9 rainy days, so a reliable umbrella and waterproof outerwear are wise companions. Despite the shorter days, Paris still enjoys an average of 3.5 hours of sunshine daily, offering moments of beautiful winter light to illuminate its iconic architecture.
This is a wonderful time to explore Paris without the summer crowds, finding warmth in charming cafes, world-class museums, and the cozy ambiance of a city preparing for spring.
What to pack for Paris in January
- Warm, layered clothing (sweaters, long-sleeved tops)
- Waterproof and windproof winter coat
- Scarf, hat, and gloves for added warmth
- Comfortable, waterproof walking boots or shoes
- A sturdy umbrella
- Thermal base layers for colder days
What to pack for Paris in January
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
- →Anti-theft crossbody bagAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Paris
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Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
January is ideal for exploring Paris's magnificent museums and art galleries without the usual queues. Indulge in the city's famous cafe culture, sipping hot chocolate or coffee in a cozy brasserie. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the Seine, wrapped up warm, or discover hidden passages and covered arcades.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Paris in January — FAQ
Q01Is January a good time to visit Paris?
Is January a good time to visit Paris?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In January, Paris averages a high of 7°C (45°F) and a low of 2°C (35°F), with 71mm of rainfall across roughly 13 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Paris in January?
What is the average temperature in Paris in January?
The average high temperature in Paris during January is 7°C (45°F), with an average low of 2°C (35°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Paris have in January?
How many rainy days does Paris have in January?
Paris averages approximately 13 rainy days in January, with a total monthly rainfall of about 71mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Paris in January?
What should I pack for Paris in January?
For Paris in January, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Paris in January?
How crowded is Paris in January?
Tourist crowds in Paris during January are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.